After Notre Dame’s 27-24 victory over Penn State in the Orange Bowl on January 9, 2025, quarterback Riley Leonard’s girlfriend, Molly Walding, shared her excitement on social media. She posted a celebratory photo with Leonard, captioned, “I’M GIDDY! Turning dreams into reality!!!!!!!”
Walding, a public relations student at Auburn University, has been in a long-distance relationship with Leonard since their high school days in Fairhope, Alabama. Despite attending different universities, they have maintained a strong bond, supporting each other through their respective academic and athletic pursuits.
Following the Orange Bowl, Leonard sought out Walding to share a special moment. He presented her with an orange, a nod to her fondness for the fruit, symbolizing their shared joy and the culmination of their journey together.
As Notre Dame advances to the College Football Playoff National Championship, Walding’s support and their enduring relationship continue to be a source of inspiration for both Leonard and their fans.